Harlequins close in on Marcus Smith replacement

The 27-year-old, who previously impressed during a two-year spell with Coventry Rugby, made the switch to Moana Pasifika in 2024 but now faces an unclear future with the franchise expected to fold at the end of the current Super Rugby season.

Sydney-born Pellegrini—who has scored five tries in 17 Tests for Tonga national rugby union team and also represents North Harbour Rugby Union—has featured nine times this season and is attracting significant interest.

According to Rugby Pass, Harlequins are monitoring the situation closely as they prepare for key departures. Young fly-half Jamie Benson is set to join Ulster Rugby next season, while Jarrod Evans is also expected to leave The Stoop and rejoin Cardiff Rugby this summer.

However, Quins are not alone in their pursuit. Welsh regions Ospreys and Scarlets, French side USA Perpignan, along with several Japanese clubs, are all believed to be tracking Pellegrini’s availability.

With Marcus Smith regularly absent on international duty with England during the Autumn internationals and the Six Nations, securing reliable fly-half cover has become a priority for Harlequins heading into next season.